Feb. 2013 -- Step right up and support fine arts by attending the Beverly Arts Center’s 42nd annual benefit auction, Sat., Feb. 9, 6 p.m. Held at the Center, 2407 W. 111th St., this year’s circus themed event will feature a professional live auction, silent auction, live music by Railroad Gin, a buffet of savories and sweets, and cash bar.

Mixing the thrill of bidding in silent and live auctions, the event offers experience packages that include travel, entertainment, sports and cultural events and tours, and an outstanding variety of service packages.

Live auction items will appeal to a rock stars, wine connoisseurs, sports fans, art lovers, fashionistas and even daredevils! Among the many items sure to make the bidding lively and competitive are:

A private curator-led tour of the Chicago Art Institute Modern Wing with lunch at Terzo Piano

Closet Clean-Up and Lady’s Day Out Shopping including a designer coat and matching bracelet from French designer Cop.Copine.

A zip line canopy tour for four near Starved Rock

Key Lime Cove resort family adventure package

Girls Nite Out private party at The Blossom Boys

Performing at the Auction will be Railroad Gin, a Chicago-based blues-roots jam band. Buffets of savories and sweets will be prepared by area restaurants, and cash bars will serve a versatile selection of cocktails, wine and beers, including Stella Artois, the Auction’s signature beer.

The Beverly Arts Center is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit and the Auction is the Center’s biggest fund raiser of the year, planned and hosted by BAC Auxiliary volunteers. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the BAC’s fine arts programming and education for all ages. Auction donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Persons wishing to support the BAC as Big Top Sponsors can give at the following levels and receive the noted benefits, including recognition in the Auction catalog: Greatest Show on Earth Sponsor, $500 and up, four complimentary auction tickets; Ringmaster Sponsor, $200 to $499, two complimentary auction tickets; Center Ring Sponsor, $100 to $199, one complimentary auction ticket; and Flying Trapeze Sponsor, donations to $99, listing in Auction catalog.